The new bridge between Salford and the Trafford Centre will open before Xmas after it had been the centre of an argument between Peel Holdings and Salford Council in recent weeks.
The A57 road and lifting bridge at Barton found itself in the middle of a dispute between the two over who should pay for maintenance of the bridge which was built to ease congestion around the Trafford Centre and Irlam and Cadishead.
All parties anticipate that the works will be concluded next week said a statement from Salford Council.
Approvals will then be required from the highways authority and Transport for Greater Manchester before the road and bridge can open to the public.
A spokesperson for Peel Land and Property, said: “We have been working closely with our contractors, as well as colleagues in Salford and Trafford councils. Together, we are committed to making the road and bridge available for public use as soon as possible, for the benefit of motorists, the local economy and communities.”
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “I am really happy to share this positive news with residents of Irlam, Cadishead, Barton, Winton and Salford, along with local councillors. Salford City Council and Peel Land and Property have been able to come together to agree to resolve our differences, and along with the support of Trafford Council we have agreed a way forward. The planned opening of the road and bridge, subject to works being completed, will mean the road layout can then work as originally designed, easing current congestion. We all understand it has been an incredibly frustrating time for local people and our priority has always been to resolve the situation as quickly as possible and ensure the road and bridge is opened.
“I would like to thank Peel Land and Property and Trafford Council for working closely with us to agree a way forward.”
Sean Anstee, Leader of Trafford Council said: This will be a really welcome early Christmas present to local communities, who have had to patiently endure disruption during the construction works.
“I’m really pleased we have worked with Salford City Council and Peel to make this happen and the benefits will now follow to ease congestion for our communities in Davyhulme, Irlam and Cadishead alongside visitors to Intu Trafford Centre.”
Discussions will continue between all parties regarding maintenance and ongoing liabilities but the road and bridge will open upon completion of works and approvals being granted.
